Gear Review: Arc’teryx Ski Clothing

March 15, 2017

Arc’teryx Sidewinder SV

Only a few weekends of use and already this jacket has seen all that southern California skiing has to offer, fresh powder days to practically being rained on. This is yet another phenomenal piece of gear to add to my Arc’teryx collection. With all of their gear, it is the smaller attentions to detail that get me- siliconized powder skirt to keep it from riding while riding, double zipper pit zips for desired venting, and my favorite feature of the Sidewinder SV, the asymmetrical waterproof front zipper. It may sound like a silly idea, but having worn this I will find it hard to go back to another normal jacket. Not only does it add a bit of flair to the look, but it saves your chin and neck from constant chafing throughout the day. Although this can make it a bit harder to find the zipper when fully closed, my chin is much happier at the end of the day, which makes me happier.

Arc’teryx Cerium LT Hoody

Lightweight, warm, and packable. All important features when looking for a down jacket. The Cerium SV is one of my favorite jackets. It goes with me everywhere because it can do nearly anything, from sitting in the office to skiing the slopes. And as is typical with Arc’teryx, the jacket both fits the needs for the activity and gets major style points too. The fit allows it to look stylish without being restrictive while active. It has taken a beating but held up to most of the damage (every down jacket eventually gets a tear), including the occasional beer spill.

Arc’teryx Konseal Hoody ¾ Zip

This is it. What every kid who watches ninja movies thinks about. This jacket allows me to be a ninja. And I couldn’t be happier. The Konseal is a departure from your typical baselayer fleece. It does the job of two pieces of clothing, and does it well. I thought it was gimmicky, that it wouldn’t really work well as a face mask, but I was wrong. The fit is snug and comfortable without being restricting, the hood fits well and under a helmet without problem. But the mask is what I am really excited about. When not wrapped around your neck, the jacket ventilates rather well, and you can stay cool on a warm day. When it is colder or windy, throw the hood on and wrap the facemask around, and you get good protection for your head as well as your neck and face. And while the mask will stay in place on its own, it can also be pushed down or hidden if not needed. A well functioning, unique piece.